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YCDF Prague 2026 | Historic Edition
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Est. 2024 • The 5th Iteration

Prague

Young Cultural Diplomacy Forum
Dates April 27-29, 2026
Deadline March 15, 2025

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The 5th Edition

  • Dubai
  • Doha
  • Bangkok
  • Bali
  • Prague
Overview

Diplomacy in the
Heart of Europe

T

he Young Cultural Diplomacy Forum (YCDF) returns for its fifth iteration, convening in Prague—a city where every cobblestone whispers history. We invite young leaders, artists, and diplomats to explore the intersection of culture, identity, and global governance.

Grounded in the historical context of Central Europe, this forum analyzes how Gothic architecture, Baroque art, and Post-Communist narratives shape modern diplomatic dialogue between East and West.

Global Footprint

A Legacy of Dialogue

Dubai

Dubai

1st Edition

Doha

Doha

2nd Edition

Bangkok

Bangkok

3rd Edition

Bali

Bali

4th Edition

Prague
Now Accepting

Prague

The 5th Iteration

Special Critical Reflection

Franz Kafka’s Prague

"Prague does not let you go... this little mother has claws."

Alienation. Bureaucracy. Identity.

A philosophical lens to explore the modern diplomatic mind. We walk the streets of the Old Town, discussing the invisible structures of power that govern our world today.

Official Schedule

Program Itinerary

Day 1

April 25, 2026

15:00 - 17:00

Arrival & Check-in

Municipal House Lobby

18:00

Opening Keynote

"The Soul of Central Europe"

18:30

Gala Dinner

Mirror Chapel

Day 2

April 26, 2026

09:30 - 12:30

Seminars & Debates

Core Diplomatic Sessions

14:00 - 15:00

Speaker Sessions

Expert Dialogues

15:00 - 17:00

Team Exercises

Delegate Presentations

Day 3

April 27, 2026

09:30 - 14:00

Future Strategy

Certification Ceremony

15:00 - 17:00

Kafka Walk

Guided Immersive Tour

Curriculum

Core Modules

I

Crossroads of Civilizations

Prague as the meeting point of Slavic, Germanic, and Jewish cultures. How plural identities shape diplomatic traditions.

II

Art & Architecture as Power

Examining Gothic and Baroque architectural expressions as tools of political memory, sovereignty, and soft power.

III

Intellectual Resistance

Analyzing works of Kundera, Dvořák, and Havel. Culture as an instrument of dissent against totalitarianism.

IV

Post-Communist Identity

Focusing on 1989 transformations, narrative reconstruction, and Europe’s evolving political identity.

V

East-West Dialogue

Using Prague as a case study in mediation and dialogue facilitation in a polarized global environment.

VI

Future Soft Power

Youth-led cultural initiatives, creative industries, and civic engagement as drivers of next-gen public diplomacy.

Registration

Participation Packages

Fully Funded

Scholarship Access

16.99 USD

  • Invitation Letter by CSCD
  • Meals during Forum
  • Air ticket & travel support
  • Accommodation (3 Nights)
  • All Workshops
  • Field Visits & Mentorship
  • Certificate of Participation
  • Virtual Course Qualification

Self Funded

Standard Access

750 USD

  • Invitation Letter by CSCD
  • Meals during Forum
  • Air ticket support
  • Accommodation (3 Nights)
  • All Workshops
  • Field Visits & Mentorship
  • Certificate of Participation
  • Virtual Course Qualification

Pay Later

Self Finance

299 USD

  • Invitation Letter by CSCD
  • Meals during Forum
  • Air ticket support
  • Accommodation (3 Nights)
  • All Workshops
  • Field Visits & Mentorship
  • Certificate of Participation
  • Virtual Course Qualification

Forum Access

Entry Only

300 USD

  • Invitation Letter by CSCD
  • Meals during Forum
  • Air ticket support
  • Accommodation
  • All Workshops
  • Field Visits & Mentorship
  • Certificate of Participation
  • Virtual Course Qualification
The Journey

Treasures of Prague

Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge at Dawn

Walk the historic cobblestones before the city wakes. A misty morning crossing the Vltava connects you to centuries of kings and commoners.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle History

Explore the largest ancient castle in the world. From Gothic spires to Romanesque basilicas, it stands as a symbol of the Czech state for over a thousand years.

Old Town Square

Old Town Square

Witness the hourly show of the Astronomical Clock, a medieval marvel. The square is the vibrant heart of Prague, surrounded by baroque buildings and history.

Cinematic Preview

The Prague Experience

Video Thumbnail

"Click to watch the official teaser"

Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there a participation fee for YCDF Prague?
The participation fee for the Young Cultural Diplomacy Forum, Prague is just $16.99 USD. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. If you are not selected for the funded category due to the competitive evaluation or are unable to attend as a self-funded participant, we have an exciting alternative for you. To ensure you still benefit from our expertise and network, our classes feature a diverse cohort with approximately 20 nationalities in each batch. You will have the opportunity to enroll in our exclusive 6-10 week virtual programs on public diplomacy, identities, public service relations, art, philosophy, and politics. These programs, valued at over $250 USD, are taught by young scholars and offer tremendous value, providing a rich and engaging learning experience that will significantly enhance your knowledge and skills in these critical areas. Learn more about our institute.
What does the Self-Funded Fee of $750 USD include?
The Self-Funded Fee of $750 USD covers comprehensive benefits, including event merchandise, a certificate of participation, access to all modules, workshops, networking sessions, and summit materials. It also encompasses accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and a complete summit experience in Istanbul ensuring a holistic and enriching participation.
Is financial assistance or scholarships available for participants?
Yes, financial assistance is available to support participants. YCDF offers various opportunities, including ten fully funded slots covering all forum expenses such as event merchandise, meals, accommodation, and additional perks like travel support. Additionally, 15 partially funded slots covering 50% of the convention fee are available. An outstanding participant will be designated as the Ideal Strategist, receiving an endorsement to work with CSCD.
How can I apply for fully funded or partially funded opportunities?
To apply for fully funded or partially funded opportunities, express your interest during the registration process and submit necessary documentation demonstrating your alignment with the convention's objectives. Selection criteria emphasize merit and commitment.
Do fully funded applicants include airfare?
Airfare support is provided to the funding holders based on criteria. As a social enterprise, we strive to maintain equilibrium, ensuring authenticity in both our merit system and program delivery.
Is the participation fee refundable in case of cancellation?
The participation fee is non-refundable, although participants with self-funded opportunities may receive specific cancellation terms communicated individually. Applicants are encouraged to review terms and conditions prior to submission.
Can I pay the participation fee on-site during the Forum?
No, on-site payments are not accepted. The participation fee must be settled upon registration confirmation and is non-refundable. All participants, including those granted funding, must complete registration and payment beforehand.

Applications Are Open

Limited to 100 participants worldwide.

Submit Candidacy

Deadline: March 15, 2025

Institutional Partners